Table of Contents
Directions
Your professor is teaching a class on Tech. Write a post responding to the professor’s question. In your response, you should:
- express and support your personal opinion
make a contribution to the discussion in your own words - An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You have ten minutes to write.
Class Discussion
Today, we are examining the societal effects of moving entirely to digital payments and a cashless economy. Apart from considering the benefits of convenience and efficiency, we should also reflect on potential social disparities. Assuming that all citizens can easily access digital technology might overlook vulnerable groups. Is the transition to a completely cashless society inclusive or discriminatory against vulnerable populations?
I believe the shift towards a cashless society can be discriminatory against vulnerable populations. Many elderly people and low-income individuals lack access to smartphones or bank accounts, making it difficult for them to participate in digital-only systems. Without cash options, these groups could face exclusion from everyday transactions, which is unfair and impractical.
I disagree with Michael. A cashless society, if developed with proper support systems, could be more inclusive. Digital systems can facilitate better financial services and reduce crime related to cash theft. For example, programs can provide easy-to-use technology and education for vulnerable people, helping them gain autonomy in managing money.
Sample Answers & Evaluation
🏆 Perfect Score – The Sniper Approach (30/30)
While Michael argues that a cashless society excludes vulnerable populations, he fails to consider the fundamental role of targeted technological empowerment. The assumption that all vulnerable groups lack digital access overlooks ongoing initiatives that actively bridge this divide. For instance, India’s Jan Dhan Yojana financial inclusion program has successfully provided millions of previously unbanked citizens with access to digital banking, fostering autonomy and economic participation. Why does this matter? Because the core challenge is not technology itself, but the infrastructure and policy frameworks that facilitate access. Moreover, digital payments reduce reliance on cash, which is prone to theft or loss, a significant risk for low-income individuals. Therefore, presuming a cashless society is inherently discriminatory ignores how deliberate strategies can create an inclusive paradigm shift that empowers all citizens equally.
Teacher’s Feedback
Score: 30/30
Logic: This response identifies the weak assumption in the opposing argument—that vulnerable groups cannot access digital technology—and counters it with a specific, real-world government program. It digs deep into the core issue of infrastructure and policy rather than superficial access problems, making the argument strong and precise.
Golden Vocabulary: autonomy, paradigm shift, facilitate
🏆 High Score – The Standard Approach (25/30)
I think a cashless society could be more inclusive if it is planned carefully. Many people who are older or have less money might not know how to use digital payments at first. For example, if a local government gives training sessions on how to use mobile banking and digital wallets, those people can learn and participate more easily. Digital payments can also be safer because they reduce the chance of losing cash or being robbed. So, while there are challenges, careful planning and support can help make a cashless society work for everyone.
Teacher’s Feedback
Score: 25/30
Logic: This essay presents a clear and logical viewpoint with a common example about training sessions but lacks the critical depth and use of specific real-life examples seen in the perfect score essay.
Golden Vocabulary: inclusive, digital wallets